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Pixel beta release fixes the fingerprint sensor and kills bug that played static over the speaker

Google releases Android 17 QPR1 beta 8 killing off several major bugs.

By Alan Friedman

Published: Aug 01, 2026, 5:41 PM

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Rear of Pixel 10 is compared to back of Pixel 10 Pro.

Owners of Pixel 6 series handsets and later need to install the latest QPR beta update. | Image by PhoneArena

Two weeks ago, Google sent a can of Raid to Pixel users in the form of Android 17 QPR1 Beta 7, killing off a few bugs. Now, the next beta release has been disseminated. Android 17 QPR1 Beta 8, the next preview for the September Pixel Feature Drop, was pushed out for the Pixel 6 series and later. Since the stable version of Android 17 QPR1 is due next month, there could be one or possibly two beta releases remaining.

How to install the latest Android 17 QPR1 beta on your compatible Pixel

Although the update has yet to make its way to my Pixel 6 Pro, you can see if it is available to you if you are a member of the Android Beta Program. If you're subscribed to the latter, you can go to Settings > System > Software updates > System update. If you see the update notification box, follow the directions to install the update.

The update includes build number CP31.260623.010 and features the same 2026-07-05 security patch level that debuted with the previous beta release. It also includes the latest Google Play services version, 26.22.36.

These are the major bug fixes listed in the update's release notes

Google writes in the release notes, "Building on the initial release of Android 17, we continue to update the platform with fixes and improvements that are then rolled out to supported devices." The top issues that are addressed by Beta 8 include:

An issue that caused unexpected loud static and audio corruption during media playback and interactions with notifications. This problem has been mentioned in more than 20 Issue Tracker submissions and was discovered when using Google Meet, Telegram, Google Photos, Instagram, and other applications.
An issue that caused the Pixel Tablet dock to go offline or fail to connect when attached.
A service issue that caused NFC tags to be unable to read data or open URLs.
An issue that prevented the fingerprint scanner from working when a user tried to unlock the device.

The Android QPR (Quarterly Platform Release) is also known as the Pixel Feature Drop. Every quarter, compatible Pixel handsets receive an update containing new features in an attempt to make supported Pixel units feel brand new. As a Pixel owner myself, I look forward to the Pixel Feature Drops, although not every feature is useful or is something I can use.

Google will soon introduce the new Pixel models

Now that we are in August, the next Made by Google event is less than two weeks away. To be precise, it will take place on August 12 starting at 6 PM EDT/3 PM PDT. Google will introduce the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold. The Pixel Watch 5, in two sizes, will also be introduced.

Google Issue Tracker lists Pixel audio complaint.

Google Issue Tracker submitted by a Pixel user complaining about loud static and audio corruption. | Image by Google

Yesterday, the Gemini AI assistant on my Pixel 6 Pro confirmed that Google will also unveil a new device on August 12, the Pixel Tag item tracker. Sporting a model number of GA12506, the Pixel Tag will be available in "Fog Light." Gemini also leaked to me that the Pixel Tag will have precision tracking using Ultra-Wideband (UWB).

The Pixel models with a UWB chip for precision item tracking include:

We should expect to see the UWB chip installed in upcoming premium Pixel models like the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold.

2026 Pixels will get a new processor and a new modem chip

The upcoming Pixel 11 line will feature the new 2nm Tensor G6 application processor manufactured by TSMC. Google is also making a huge change to the Pixel's modem by replacing the often-criticized Samsung 5G modem chip with the more energy-efficient MediaTek M90 modem chip.

Lastly, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will lose Google support on October 1, 2026. That means the pair will not be able to participate in the Android 17 QPR2 beta. Because it was released later than the flagship Pixel 6 line, the mid-range Pixel 6a will keep Google support until July 2027, and it will receive the Android 17 QPR2 beta OTA updates.

Love the Google Pixel? Odds favor that you'll love these:

Google will unveil a new Pixel device on August 12.

Update exterminates many Pixel bugs.

Google promotes Pixel 11's bright new feature.

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Alan, an ardent smartphone enthusiast and a veteran writer at PhoneArena since 2009, has witnessed and chronicled the transformative years of mobile technology. Owning iconic phones from the original iPhone to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, he has seen smartphones evolve into a global phenomenon. Beyond smartphones, Alan has covered the emergence of tablets, smartwatches, and smart speakers.

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